From the Foothills: The Story Behind Carrie Foscato Design

There's something about living in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains that changes the way you see the world. The light shifts differently here in Rappahannock County, Virginia — golden in the morning, deep and moody by dusk — and that's exactly the kind of beauty I try to capture in every piece I make.

I'm Carrie, a solo artisan jeweler working out of my studio in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. I specialize in handmade copper and sterling silver wire wrapped jewelry — each piece designed and crafted by my own hands, made to order, and built to last.

How it started

I didn't set out to become a jeweler. First and foremost, I make jewelry because my mentor did, Sally Buchanan. I inherited all her stones and supplies and I carry on creating in her footsteps. Secondly, my mother and daughter suffer from metal allergies and cannot wear junk alloys or fast-fashion jewelry. I have endeavored to bring them and you safe, hypoallergenic jewelry that is also beautiful. Like most makers, I followed a pull toward creating things — toward working with my hands and making something tangible and beautiful out of raw materials. Copper was my first love. There's an honesty to it: warm, earthy, alive. It patinas over time like something that's been worn and loved, which I think is exactly what jewelry should do.

Sterling silver came next — cooler, more refined, but just as expressive in the right hands. Together, these two metals form the foundation of everything I make at Carrie Foscato Design.

Inspired by where I live

The Blue Ridge Mountains aren't just a backdrop — they're a creative partner. The colors, textures, and rhythms of this landscape show up in my work constantly. The deep midnight blue of a spinel bead that looks like wild blueberries. The warm copper tones that mirror the autumn ridgeline. The organic, flowing lines of wire wrapping that echo the way a creek moves through the valley.

Living here in Rappahannock County means I'm surrounded by a kind of quiet beauty that doesn't shout — it invites you to look closer. That's what I want my jewelry to do too.

Browse the copper collection — each piece inspired by this landscape →

Made to order, made with intention

Every piece in my shop is handmade to order. That means when you purchase something from me, I make it specifically for you. It's not sitting in a warehouse. It hasn't been mass produced. It's made slowly, with care, in my Virginia studio — and that matters to me deeply.

I work primarily in solid bare copper and .925 sterling silver — no plating, no shortcuts. I also offer a Protectaclear sealant option for customers who want extra protection against tarnish, but I always recommend letting copper live and breathe naturally.

A note on copper and anniversaries

If you found me while searching for a 7th anniversary gift — welcome! Copper is the traditional gift for a 7th wedding anniversary, and I think handmade copper jewelry is one of the most meaningful ways to honor that milestone. Each piece tells a story, just like seven years of marriage does.

What you can expect from me

When you order from me, you're not just getting a piece of jewelry — you're getting my full attention. I take special care of every customer, whether that means tucking a little surprise into your package, sending a personalized thank-you, or simply being here when you have a question. I respond quickly and personally — no bots, no form letters. If something isn't right, we'll make it right. That's a promise I make to every single person who trusts me with their order.

Come find me

I'm always adding new designs to the shop, and I love connecting with customers who appreciate the craft behind what they wear.

Handmade in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. One piece at a time.